Under various parties' scrutiny, Eric needed assistance from the Montgomerys. They facilitated the reception of both the executives and the Lockes in King City before organizing their direct return to Salt City.

An unsettling emotion gripped Eric as he gazed over Salt City through the floor-to-ceiling window.

"Andy, pass me a cigarette," he requested from Andy behind him.

Andy warned, "You better not smoke this thing. It's hard to quit once you're addicted."

"No worries," Eric dismissed.

Handing the cigarette and lighter to Eric, Andy sighed.

After taking a puff, Eric coughed violently. He confessed with a mocking smile, "I used to be repelled by people who smoked this stuff. Now, I understand."

"There has been progress today. Sylvia will surely be back soon," Andy comforted.

Eric smoked the cigarette to the end, exhaling a plume of smoke. "I hope so."

-

Back at the Rosewood Estate, Eric prepared a meal. Sitting alone in the dining room felt uncomfortable. As he surveyed the